Last playoff appearance: 2005, lost to Lincoln County in the first round

The inside slant: Navas divides his players into two groups at practice - the blue shirts and white shirts. One group stays on offense and one stays on defense. "We're going to play 40 kids every Friday night," Navas said. "Our studs will play both ways, and we're going to try and get a lot of other guys in." ... Jefferson's 11 seniors are poised to step up as leaders. "(They) have adopted a good leadership role this summer," Navas said.

Smooth sailing: Sept. 29 - Mt. Pisgah went 7-4 in GISA, but could experience growing pains in its first GHSA season.

Troubled waters: Nov. 3 - Just when Jefferson appeared to be making headway in its rivalry with Commerce, the Tigers defeated the Dragons 33-15 last season.

The first mate

Tyler Hill, FB, Jr., 6-0, 205

HIll rushed for 600 yards as a sophomore from the fullback position in Navas' Pro-I formation offense. "He's a good fullback," Navas said. "He's a good player."

Bow to stern

Offense

Jefferson returns only three starters and features new players at quarterback and halfback. In addition, most players on the offensive line are untested or in their first year as starters.

Defense

The Dragons switched from a 50-front to a 40-front to better utilize their personnel. Navas said the Dragons have more players suited to play at outside linebacker, rather than tackle.

Special teams

Mosley, Hill and Will Meek are competing for the punting duties. Navas said he is still searching for a kicker and a snapper.

Intangibles

Navas said his team may not have a better record than last year, but the team could be better. "We're going to be a better football team at the end," he said. "I like our shot at the playoffs because we're playing better people, if we can get there."

Team heading

East

Jefferson has big question marks at quarterback and special teams. The Dragons can stay afloat, but are unlikely to dazzle.